Full and Partial Dentures

REMOVABLE DENTURES

How Does Link Dental Help?

Dentures are a great replacement for missing teeth. They can be removed and put back in at any time. Here at Link Dental, we offer affordable false teeth while using the very best material on the market. The reason that Dr. Link may recommend dentures is that in some situations a patient may not have enough healthy teeth left for other procedures. With a case like this, the remaining teeth are removed and a full set of false teeth is provided. There are two types of false teeth.

Conventional Full Dentures

Conventional full dentures are when all of the teeth are removed and the tissue is given time to heal. Once healed the full set of false teeth is placed. The time it takes for the tissue to heal could take a few weeks to a few months. During this time the patient will go without teeth.

Immediate Full Dentures

Immediate full dentures are placed in the same dental visit. Prior to pulling the remaining teeth, Dr. Link will take measurements of the patient’s mouth. When the patient returns for the procedure and directly after the patient’s remaining teeth are removed, the set is placed. The patient’s jawbone and mouth may shift in the healing process, so Dr. Link would recommend a follow-up visit to check the placement of the dentures. Over time the set will need to be tightened as the patient’s mouth heals.

There are also partial dentures. These are similar to a bridge but are removable.

False teeth take time to get used to. The flesh-colored base is placed over the tops of the gums. Some patients feel that they get in the way or are a bit bulky. They may feel loose at times. Because of this, it may affect the way that you talk or eat, but over time they become less of a nuisance and you’ll feel comfortable with them.

Denture Care

Taking good care of your false teeth is essential for getting the most out of them. It’s also important for your oral health.

• When handling them, it’s a good idea to have a full sink of water or a folded towel ready in case they slip out of your hands.
• False teeth should be brushed daily to remove food and plaque, but don’t use toothpaste on them. Use a brush designed for cleaning dentures.
• Rinse them after every meal.
• Use a denture cleaner to clean your dentures. Hand soap or mild dishwashing liquid also works, but toothpaste and household cleaners are too abrasive. Bleach will whiten the pink part of the denture, so avoid it.
• If you use ultrasonic cleaners, make sure to still brush the denture.
• When not wearing them, they should be kept moist so they don’t dry out or lose their shape. Store them in cool water or a denture-soaking solution. We can recommend the best denture solution for your type of dentures.

Denture Repairs and Adjustments

You may need one or more follow-up appointments for adjustments after getting your dentures. Do not attempt to make adjustments or repairs on your own. Bending any part of the clasp or metal attachments will weaken them, and DIY denture repair kits can permanently damage them. Leave it to the professionals.

It’s important for dentures to fit properly. When they don’t, they can cause irritation and sores on the cheeks and gums. Get in touch with us if they break, chip, crack, or one of the teeth becomes loose.

Replacing Old Dentures

Due to normal wear and tear and the changes our faces, jaws, and gums go through over time, dentures will eventually need to be rebased, relined, or even completely remade. If they are cared for properly, complete dentures should last up to seven years before you need replacements.

Caring for Your Mouth and Gums With False Teeth

Even without teeth, we still need to brush twice a day. Use a soft-bristled brush to clean your gums, tongue, and palate before the false teeth go in and after they come out. Doing so removes plaque and stimulates blood circulation. The teeth that fit under the denture’s metal clasps should receive special attention. Plaque can get trapped under the clasps and put those teeth in danger of tooth decay. Partials should be removed before you brush your natural teeth.

Take good care of your gums. They need regular cleaning, rest, and massaging. A daily warm salt water rinse will help keep your gums clean, and a balanced diet is important for oral health as well.

For more information about partial or full dentures or to schedule a consultation please call (303) 773-8262 or email us, and make sure to check the map before you head our way!